John Lewis becomes first retailer to set net-zero targets

The John Lewis Partnership has become the first retailer in the UK to have its “science-based” net-zero targets validated by the The Science Based Targets initiative.

The SBTi, the gold standard for setting and monitoring corporate climate targets, has validated the partnership’s target to become net-zero across its own operations by 2035, and wider supply chain by 2050.

According to the group, this achievement demonstrates its “clear commitment to play its part to limit the global temperature rise to 1.5°C”, as called for in the Paris Agreement.

The partnership is also the first retailer in the world to have validated SBTi science-based targets focused on greenhouse gas emissions originating from ‘forests, land and agriculture’, which make up part of total emissions footprint alongside the energy used to run our stores and make our products. 

Marija Rompani, director of sustainability at John Lewis Partnership, said: “Reaching net-zero by 2050 means transforming our business in every way, from how we design our goods to last, how we and our suppliers power our farms, factories and stores, and how we make it easier for our customers to make more sustainable choices. 

“To be the first retailer globally to set forest, land and agriculture science-based targets gives us great pride. It will be the bedrock of our plans to protect and restore nature and tackle the climate crisis over the years to come.”

Simon Winch, environment lead at the John Lewis Partnership, added: “Coming up with a set of credible targets for our road to net-zero is the culmination of many months of focused work and determined preparation. Validation by SBTi gives us great confidence in the targets and our plans.”

Luiz Amaral, CEO of the SBTi, added: “Climate science tells us that we need rapid and deep emissions cuts if we are to achieve global net-zero and prevent the most damaging effects of climate change

“The John Lewis Partnership’s net-zero targets match the urgency of the climate crisis and set a clear example that their peers must follow.”